Texas Burn Injury Lawyers

Dust Combustible Explosions

Sometimes the most unassuming and seemingly harmless objects turn out to be the most dangerous objects. Certain kinds of dust in particular circumstances can have explosive capabilities. Because of this specific property, combustible dust explosions are regarded to be a threat to the industrial world. These blasts cause wide-spread damage, not only to property but also to individuals. The number of dust explosions is growing each year, which means that there needs to be a higher level of awareness regarding the potential danger. Every year, hundreds of people suffer from extensive burn injuries due to dust combustible explosions.

We must understand, though, that “dust doesn’t just spontaneously combust,” as cleverly put by a professor at the Kansas State University’s grain science and industry department. His statement implies that there is a gradual process involved which leads to the eventuality.

The process is fairly simple. Dust must first accumulate onto a surface. After the accumulation occurs, it is disturbed and gets into the air. It is at this point that the dust becomes the most dangerous, because it is exposed to the oxygen in the air. Also, dust particles have a large surface which makes them even more reactive. In fact, the National Fire Protection Association has defined any material under 420 microns potentially explosive.

But what causes the explosion? The dust, once in the air, must be met with an ignition force. Once ignited, the dust particles cause a chain-reaction explosion, which can yield catastrophic and destructive force. In the worst cases, a secondary explosion may occur once the first fireball has evaporated. This could mean that the burn injuries sustain by potential victims could be fatal.

Industrial Companies that use highly explosive dust particles need to take much better care of these dangerous materials. If not, someone could become seriously injured or even lose their life. For more information regarding prevention of potential explosions, or if you would like to know legal options regarding an unfortunate burn accident, call the burn injury law specialist of the Williams Kherkher firm at 866.950.9000.